From Jaime Escuder: My name is Jaime Escuder and I am writing to announce my candidacy, as a Democrat, for the office of District Attorney for the 83rd District of Texas.

I have been practicing law for eleven years, mostly defending felony cases in the Chicago area, as well as supervising and training new trial lawyers. I moved to Alpine almost two years ago with my wife, Beverly, and our two young daughters. During that time, I have maintained an active criminal law practice, regularly appearing in state and federal courthouses throughout our region. I also continue to coach the Alpine High School mock trial team, which I started last year.

I have a deep sense of justice that has called me to run for the office of District Attorney. The justice system is broken and, as District Attorney, I would like to do my part to fix it. My primary goal as DA will be to make sure that those who harm the citizens of Brewster, Jeff Davis, Pecos and Presidio Counties are held accountable. When someone engages in violent or criminally dishonest conduct, for example, they forfeit their right to fully participate in society. I would have no problem prosecuting those cases and seeking stiff penalties when they are warranted.

Having said that, I believe that prosecutors must meet the awesome power they have with humility and restraint. As I announce my candidacy, I pledge to do just that. I will work tirelessly on behalf of victims to bring justice to the Big Bend by holding criminal offenders responsible for their actions. I will do so without unfairly exaggerating charges or seeking the unconscionable prison sentences that are so common in today’s criminal justice system.

I will also support our police by communicating with them to address their concerns, and by partnering with them to ensure that their investigations withstand judicial scrutiny. Even though, as a defense attorney, I have at times been called upon to challenge the work of the police, I have always strived to maintain a professional and respectful relationship with law enforcement. I have tremendous appreciation for what they do, and I look forward to working with them to protect the safety, welfare and constitutional rights of the people of the Big Bend.

Finally, let me say that I have been compelled to enter this campaign by a sense of possibility. I am running for, and not against, something. I will work hard to earn your respect as I build the 83rd District Attorney’s Office into what it can and ought to be: a beacon of justice, integrity and professionalism in our community.